Petr Cech’s departure from Chelsea is a result of Todd Boehly

Chelsea fans have gotten used to their world being flipped upside down in 2022. It began with a shocking announcement from Roman Abramovich back in March that he was putting the club up for sale. Fast forward three months and a new ownership group was through the door at Cobham for the first time in nearly two decades. Oh, and there’s also the part in between where the Blues were sanctioned by the United Kingdom’s government as a result of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and Abramovich’s direct relationship with Vladimir Putin. Suffice it to say, it’s been mental.

Change is happening quick and fast around Chelsea, it’s just a part of supporting the club than fans must accept nowadays. The renovations in-house have been accelerated too with Todd Boehly and Co. officially taking ownership at the beginning of June. The departures of Bruce Buck and Marina Granovskaia were expected, albeit maybe not so soon. But Petr Cech’s announcement, where he voiced his intention to exit on Monday morning, came as a surprise to many. Regardless, Boehly’s business style has largely been the catalyst for this swift transition.

Todd Boehly’s business ways are speeding up the changes at Chelsea

The latest update on the club’s official website sees the Blues’ legendary former goalkeeper step down from his post as Technical and Performance Advisor after three years, effective June 30. Cech transitioned into that role straight after his retirement from football, and it was said on numerous occasions that he had an important part to play in the Chelsea hierarchy.

The 40-year-old enjoyed a close relationship with Granovskaia, who took on a bigger role once Abramovich was effectively banned from the country. The departure of Technical Director Michael Emenalo a few seasons prior also played a part in the Czech’s role growing. Cech—who has more experience playing for the Blues than most individuals in history, let alone those in the club’s current ranks—was seen as a liaison between the board and the teams. This was the most information the public was ever given regarding his role really, until Monday.

In a statement made by the club, Chelsea disclosed that:

"“Since his appointment three years ago, Cech has provided advice and guidance on all football and performance matters throughout the Club, while strengthening the links between our men’s and Academy teams.”"

When The Daily Telegraph’s Matt Law reported on the news, he claimed that Boehly wanted Cech to stay on board, at least through the end of the transfer window. However, the advisor thought it was a good time to split given the departures of his colleagues, Buck and Granovskaia. Cech’s exit is a direct result of the way Boehly has done business thus far. The American owner has been extremely hands-on, already taking on the roles of both Buck and Granovskaia amidst their departures. If reports are to be believed, he’s also worked directly with Thomas Tuchel on every decision the club has made thus far. This essentially makes Cech’s role obsolete, which is likely why he believed it was the right time to leave.

Boehly has worked tirelessly since officially being named the new owner as he prepares for his first season in charge. Times they are a-changin’ around Stamford Bridge as the chop and change ways of the past are being kicked to the curb. Boehly and Tuchel have a big month ahead of them as they not only continue to prep for next season, but also continue construction on the club’s long-term foundation on the pitch.

It’s never easy to watch a legend like Cech walk away from the club, but exciting times lie ahead for all of the Blues’ supporters with Boehly at the helm.